1997 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Donkervoort D8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Donkervoort D8 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (138 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 579 kg more than 1997 Donkervoort D8.
Because 1997 Donkervoort D8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Donkervoort D8 (170 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Donkervoort D8 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Donkervoort | Volkswagen |
Model | D8 | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 84 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1229 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2578 mm |